Warrior Quest International

Q: Do you teach Explosives?

Well, first off, I should mention that no one should experiment with explosives. Making incendiary devices is a science that requires a vast amount of knowledge. I actually have an explosives license, which makes it easier (and legal) for me to design and create these items.

With that said, I have no problem explaining the process and effects of some of these devices. I give this information in the hopes that it will inspire potential Ninja enthusiasts on their journey to learning more about the art.

One of my favorite devices is the “Hi-kugi”, or “Fire Spike”. This makes use of a small amount of explosive powder (my own special mixture) wrapped tightly in a piece of rice paper that I have coated with a fine incendiary powder that makes it flammable. I then attach this to a throwing spike, leaving a loosely twisted end to serve as a makeshift fuse. I light the fuse prior to throwing it. Because the fuse is loosely twisted, it takes about 5 to 6 seconds before it reaches the explosive powder, which is more than enough time to throw the devise into a target. The result - a throwing spike that imbeds in the target and then explodes.

The next explosive I will explain is the “Torinoko,” or “Flash bomb.” These are valuable because they are small, easily concealable and give off a bright flash, making them perfect for distraction and escape. Normally loosely packed in a globe-shaped receptacle, these devices project very little noise. They are made up of a special mixture of explosive powder and metal shavings. I then attach a 2 to 3 inch fuse to give me ample time to throw it. I usually like my flash bombs to explode anywhere from 15 to 20 feet from me, but with experimentation on fuse length, they can be designed to explode consistently at any range. However, in my opinion, they are best when exploding in mid-air because it puts them at eye-level with the enemy.

There are many other devices, including the Nagedeppo (throwing grenade) and the Umebi (land mine) that produce much bigger explosions, and Endan (smoke bombs) that create large amounts of smoke. All of these devices are an important part of the historical application of the Ninja arts, and are therefore taught to all students of the Kurai Kotori system.

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